Garburn Pass
This is a lakes staple (around 19 miles) from the Troutbeck side. It’s worth noting it can be ridden both ways but the climb from the Kentmere Church is tough and you’ll be wishing you were riding down it as you climb. It’s a classic Lakes ride and once again you’ll be rewarded with one of the best technical descents in the Lake District.
You’ll be glad to know you have a choice of Wilfs Café, More Bakery and Hawkshead Brewery at the beginning or end of your ride to satisfy your every craving.
Start the ride at Staveley Mill Yard where parking is free. Wheelbase is here so too if you’ve forgotten anything for your spares/tool bag – now’s the time to get it. Head out of Staveley onto the A591 and follow the cycle path towards Windermere. Take the 3rd right after the speed cameras and climb the lane, follow this until you come to a wide gravel path on your right with a sign pointing to Dubbs Reservoir. Take that bridleway, keeping right, and you’ll eventually climb all the way to top of Garburn Pass.
Some people prefer to drive to Limefit Park in Troutbeck where you can park in the lay by opposite. If you fancy starting from here just ride through the park, up behind the pub and you’ll see a gate and short climb before cutting back on yourself to join the main Garburn climb.
This is a real local favourite and the 3 short successive technical climbs will test the very best. The views down Troutbeck Valley are stunning and you’ll be looking up Ill Bell and High Street in the distance. Once you summit you’re in for a treat because the descent on the other side is long, super technical, rocky, bouldery and fast. Stay off the brakes and have the time of your life.
Once you arrive into Kentmere valley you’ll be heading past the church and then it’s decision time again. Either road ride it back to Staveley, head over the side up to Green Quarter and back to Staveley or head up Heartbreak Hill and finish with 3 Rivers to Staveley.
